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Full Time 500 Hour Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in ... Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Responsibilities A successful candidate will conduct full-time Pilot duties on a variety of NASA ... Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in ...

As a Helicopter Pilot is located in the Headquarters section of the United States Army Air ... Heavy Helicopter: 500 hours; Instrument: 75 hours. Please review the OPM qualification standard for ...

... • 500 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DOD-owned/operated fighter aircraft Specific Air Force Contract Qualifications • 1200 hours total PIC of a tactical military aircraft • ...

Helicopter Pilot - S-70 (UH-60L) Black Hawk Firefighting Operations McMinnville, OR | Full-Time | ... Minimum Qualifications * 3,000+ total rotary-wing flight hours. * 2,500+ hours Pilot in Command ...

... 500 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DOD-owned/operated fighter aircraft Specific Air Force Contract Qualifications 1200 hours total PIC of a tactical military aircraft Current in a ...

A successful candidate will conduct full-time Pilot duties on a variety of NASA aircraft as ... Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in ...

Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Pilot

Lihue, HI · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

High school diploma or GED required. * 2,500 hours Pilot-in-Command hours documented and verifiable. * 1,000 turbine hours * Pilot in Command Hours preferred. * Have a Commercial-instrument ...

The Pilot in Command (PIC) holds final responsibility to ensure aircraft is operated in a safe ... Jet: 500 hours Base Salary Range Cabin Size Large/Heavy/Premium $270,000 - $300,000 How EJM ...

Minimum 2500 hours total time 1200 hours pilot in command that includes 500 hours cross country time. 100 hours of night time and 75 hours of actual or simulated instrument time. * 3+ years of ...

Showing results 21-40

Full Time 500 Hour Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do full time 500 hour pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time 500 hour pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time 500 hour pilot?

A Full Time 500 Hour Pilot is a professional pilot who has accumulated at least 500 hours of total flight time and works in a full-time capacity, typically for commercial operators, charter companies, or flight schools. This experience level is often a minimum requirement for entry-level pilot jobs, such as co-pilot positions, regional airlines, or flight instructor roles. These pilots are responsible for safely operating aircraft, adhering to aviation regulations, and maintaining up-to-date training. Achieving 500 hours of flight time demonstrates a significant level of skill and commitment in the aviation industry.

What are some common challenges faced by full-time 500 hour pilots when transitioning to more complex aircraft or larger flight departments?

Full-time 500-hour pilots often encounter challenges such as adapting to more advanced avionics, handling higher workloads, and meeting stricter operational standards as they move into roles with larger aircraft or bigger flight departments. They may also need to quickly learn new company procedures, develop stronger communication skills for crew coordination, and demonstrate proficiency in managing more complex flight operations. Mentorship, ongoing training, and proactive engagement with experienced colleagues can help ease this transition and support career advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time 500 hour pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time 500 Hour Pilot, you need a commercial pilot license, a minimum of 500 logged flight hours, strong aeronautical decision-making, and a thorough understanding of aviation regulations. Familiarity with avionics systems, GPS navigation, and flight planning software is typically required, along with instrument and multi-engine ratings depending on the employer. Excellent communication, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for ensuring safe and efficient flight operations. These competencies are vital for maintaining safety standards, handling dynamic flight conditions, and meeting regulatory and employer expectations.

What is the difference between Full Time 500 Hour Pilot vs Part Time 500 Hour Pilot?

AspectFull Time 500 Hour PilotPart Time 500 Hour Pilot
CertificationsRequires FAA pilot certifications, including private or commercial pilot licenseSame certifications required, but may have less flight experience
Work EnvironmentFull-time employment, regular schedules, consistent flight hoursPart-time, flexible schedules, fewer flight hours per week
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in commercial aviation, flight schools, and charter servicesUsed in similar industries but with less overall flight time commitment

The main difference between a Full Time 500 Hour Pilot and a Part Time 500 Hour Pilot is the work schedule and flight hours. Full Time pilots work regular hours and accumulate flight hours consistently, while Part Time pilots have flexible schedules with fewer hours. Both roles require the same certifications and are used in similar industry settings.

More about Full Time 500 Hour Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Full Time 500 Hour Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Full Time 500 Hour Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of 500 Hour Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of 500 Hour Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Full Time 500 Hour Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Full Time 500 Hour Pilot jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Full Time 500 Hour Pilot jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time 500 Hour Pilot jobs are:

Infographic showing various Full Time 500 Hour Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 34% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Research Pilot

i3

Edwards, CA • On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Overview

NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew member performs duties in support of the operations of all aircraft assigned to applicable base location. Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe operations are provided as tasked. Aircraft are operated to meet Agency platform, research, and support aircraft requirements. AFRC aircraft are located at the main campus at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Deployed operations, both CONUS and OCONUS, are routine for these aircrew positions.

Pay Range $170,000-$190,000.

The pay range for this position is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, geographic location, and any applicable laws.

Responsibilities

A successful candidate will conduct full-time Pilot duties on a variety of NASA aircraft as assigned to include, but not limited to: C-20A, Gulfstream (III, IV, and V), Pilatus PC-12, T-34, RQ-4 Global Hawk, and TG-14.

Duties include:

  • Conducting flight operations in accordance with FAA, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), and other applicable directives, regulations, and instructions.
  • Maintaining performance standards in accordance with directives, training plans and Flight Crew Branch policies to include: Knowledge of safety precautions, Knowledge of airfield operations, Demonstrating Emergency Bold Face procedures from memory, and Knowledge of aircraft systems, limitations and ATC regulations / procedures.
  • Participating in i3 and NASA-directed Continuation Training, meetings, and other forums mandated by the on-site management team.
  • Performing any and all on-site tasks necessary at operating locations for a safe, secure, and professional operation.
  • Direct support to any administrative or flight operations scheduling / record keeping as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

Candidate must also maintain proficiency, currency, and annual requirements in accordance with NPR 7900.3C, NPD 7900.4D, AFPD 8700.1 and AFOP 7900.3-006 as applicable.

NASA will provide training and qualification checks for aircrew, including required periodic simulator training

NASA authorized flight surgeon will provide periodic flight physicals for aircrew

Qualifications

Required Skills:

  • Bachelor's degree, or higher, from an accredited university or college (Required), with major study in an appropriate field of engineering, physical science, life science, or mathematics (Desired).
  • Must be able to pass random drug screenings. (Required)
  • Possess a current US passport, valid through period of employment. (Required)
  • Formal military training in expected duties (with DD 214 annotating AFSC / MOS qualification) or applicable civilian experience. (Highly Desired)
  • Possess an FAA commercial pilot license with instrument, multiengine and single engine land ratings or possess a pilot and instrument rating from the armed services. (Required)
  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft with 500 hours of special missions' experience (Highly Desired)
  • Must meet the security requirements of the position and pass a NASA Flight Medical Certification (Required).

Required Experience:

  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft with 500 hours of special missions' experience (Highly Desired)
  • Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor providing direct support to NASA AFRC staff as required.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Must be able to create, maintain and update briefings and statistical reporting.
  • Must be able to obtain a DoD SECRET security clearance.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

  • Light to medium work. Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, see, hear, stoop, crouch, feel, handle; manual dexterity.
  • Outside work. Ability to tolerate conditions in a deployed environment to include inclement weather, rain, humidity, cold and extreme heat. May be exposed to dust, fumes, odors, chemicals, and confined spaces.
  • Close, distance, color and peripheral vision and depth perception.
  • Ability to read and comprehend technical manuals and instructions; procedures, safety instructions, memos, reports. Ability to write at a level to relay data, details and information. Ability to perform shop math. Ability to speak clearly and concisely to relay information.
  • Office conditions: Moderate noise level. May be required to sit at computer station and/or type on keyboard for extended periods of time. May be required to lift objects such as laptop and office copy paper. May be required to view and read computer monitor for extended periods of time. May be required to take verbal messages per phone and face-to-face contact. Will occasionally be required to stand and walk to deliver items within office or on the flight line.
  • Flight line working conditions: Will be required to work day or night. May be exposed to high noise levels. Will be required to fly long missions (up to 12 hours) at high altitude in a confined space. May be subject to the altitude or physiological risks normally associated with flying.
About i3

i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.

Perks of being a team member owner include:

  • Long-term financial security
  • Higher job satisfaction
  • Greater job security
  • Personal and professional growth
  • Great company culture

Other outstanding benefits:

  • Excellent insurance coverage
  • 401(k) match
  • Generous PTO
  • Health and wellness incentives
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!

Employment Type: FULL_TIME